Pakistan Print edition: 2026-04-29

54 Pakistanis detained in Cambodia to be repatriated soon: FO

Published April 29, 2026 Updated April 29, 2026 05:57am

2 min

By Naveed Siddiqui

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ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office (FO) announced on Tuesday that over 54 Pakistani nationals detained in Cambodia will be repatriated soon, following successful diplomatic engagement by the Pakistan Embassy.

FO Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi while responding to media queries said the Embassy immediately acted and pursued the matter on the instructions from the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to extend maximum support to overseas Pakistanis. Cambodian authorities have agreed to release the detainees, who were arrested in Siem Reap during a raid on a scamming compound, he further stated.

DPM/GM Ishaq Dar directed the MOFA and Embassy staff to take all possible actions aimed at facilitating the Pakistani community abroad.

“As a result of the Embassy’s efforts, the host authorities have agreed to the early repatriation of 54 Pakistani nationals detained in Siem Reap Province. These individuals were arrested following a raid on a scamming compound,” he added.

According to the FO spokesperson, the Embassy staff are ensuring the welfare of the detainees and coordinating flight arrangements for their early return.

Andrabi remarked that, as a goodwill gesture, Cambodian authorities will repatriate the Pakistanis without initiating legal proceedings under the recently enforced “Law on Combating Online Scams,” which carries severe penalties. The relevant law comes into effect on 7 April 2026, imposing significant prison sentences and hefty fines.

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